A teenager, deeply affected by a brutal petrol attack, suffered extensive burns covering 32 percent of his body, including severe injuries to his face, torso, arms, back, and legs. The incident occurred in Coonabarabran, a rural town in New South Wales, Australia, on October 13, as part of an ongoing feud between two families.
Reportedly, the young man was approached by a group of individuals who splashed him with a liquid that ignited, causing him to catch fire. Passers-by intervened to put out the flames before he was rushed to intensive care. The severity of his injuries was such that his siblings initially struggled to identify him in the hospital.
His family, deeply affected by the traumatic event, explained that Jacob, along with his relatives, has been enduring significant challenges since the attack. Despite the emotional toll and severe breathing difficulties he is facing, Jacob remains positive as he copes with the aftermath of the incident.
Following the assault, a 45-year-old woman, a 19-year-old man, and a 17-year-old girl were arrested and charged in connection with the attack. The man faced charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray, while the woman was charged with affray. They were all detained except for the teenage girl pending further investigation.
A fundraising campaign was initiated to support Jacob’s recovery, highlighting the extent of his injuries and the long road to rehabilitation ahead. Although initially on life support and still grappling with breathing issues and eye injuries, Jacob has shown some signs of improvement, although he continues to require close monitoring and treatment for his dislocated shoulder.